By Andi Anderson
Illinois food growers, distributors, and activists are joining forces to build a more resilient and equitable food system in the state. Over 300 participants engaged in listening sessions under the Local Food Purchasing Assistance program (LFPA), a federally funded initiative with a $28 million budget for 2023. The key focus areas include infrastructure development, agribusiness support, consumer education, and efforts to bolster food access.
Currently, around 95% of food consumed in Illinois is sourced from outside the state, a challenge the LFPA aims to address. Stakeholders put forth several recommendations:
1. Infrastructure Boost: Participants stressed the need for substantial infrastructure investments. This includes transportation and distribution improvements, expanded cold storage facilities, food processing capabilities, and EBT system enhancements. Such upgrades could reduce food waste and enhance distribution efficiency.
2. Agribusiness Support: Farmers called for assistance in managing their roles as business owners and farmers. They sought help with marketing, investment capital, financial planning, and access to land. With the majority of Illinois farmers aging, succession planning emerged as a critical concern.
3. Consumer Education: Stakeholders expressed concern that consumers often lack knowledge about preparing and consuming locally grown foods. Bridging this knowledge gap could reduce food waste and improve nutrition. Initiatives to connect consumers with food sources and educate them on food preparation were proposed.
4. Food Access: Innovative approaches to increase food access, especially in underserved communities, were emphasized. Direct delivery to consumers was seen as a way to overcome transportation and mobility barriers. Shared delivery vans or mobile units could make food more accessible.
While LFPA is funded for two years, advocates stress the need to secure additional funding through engagement with legislators at state and federal levels. Short-term funding may not adequately support local farmers, provide consistent fresh produce to underserved areas, or build a sustainable food system. The goal is a long-term, sustainable food system for Illinois, achieved by supporting growers and producers, investing in education and marketing, and advocating for additional funding.
Applications for the Illinois – Equitable Access Towards Sustainable Systems (EATS) program, funded by LFPA, are open. Interested parties can find more information and guidelines at go.illinois.edu/LFPA, with Extension staff available for inquiries each Tuesday until the October 31 application deadline. Through collaboration and concerted efforts, Illinois aims to create a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable food system.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: Illinois, General